God bless him. There are a number of recorded deaths and encounters with heaven and God's realm.
Really shouldn't be a surprise. We are but an eye blink from this dimension to the next where those who love God will spend an eternity in His presence.
As for me, I am ready to go.
If so-called extraterestials frequent our small galaxy and planet, then they must be considered in the vein of demonology. If they exist in the universe, then perhaps almighty God created more than our species. That said, mankind alone is special in the eyes of the God of Abraham.
God sent His own son to die for man's transgressions. That incredible sacrifice illustrates a God of love and acceptance to all who would call upon His name.
I was a 16 year old runaway. Fairly good kid, but had problems with issues involving my parents divorce and a father who loved Vodka. I hated school and authority. Came close to reform school after a grand larceny incident, but received probation and working a farm job for the state. Then dropped out of school and decided to run.
A friend and I left Oregon with a tank of gas and a single loaf of bread. Came close to being picked up several time from stealing gas and such. Ended up in Casper, Wyoming where my uncle and aunt allowed us into their home. My uncle/aunt were Christians, which meant nothing to me. My background had no history or involvement with anything religious. Bottom line, on a beautiful Sunday morning, my Uncle persuaded me to attend church. During the service, an alter call was made. However, rather than go forward, I ran out of the building and up the street. My uncle who was 6'4" was able to catch up... After some words, he persuaded me to return to the sanctuary. That led me to the alter and acceptance of Jesus as my Lord and Savior.
I learned later that my twin brother had accepted Christ the same morning while attending church in Coos Bay, Oregon. Was that coincidental or what? Eventually, he retired as an army chaplain.
Happy to be an American? There is a difference. Pride as an American - yes! I didn't earn this status; it was granted when born in this country. Proud only if defined with humility.
Proud enought to have served six (6) years active duty with the U.S. Army, which put some starch in my shorts, and a realization that the America we enjoy was galvanized by the God of Abraham, cemented by the constitution, and forged by many brave citizens who have bled and died for this nation.
I humbly state that God alone granted me citizenship in the greatest country on earth.
Having served six years active duty in the U.S. Army, I have nothing but gratitude and appreciation for the young men and women serving in our uniformed services. They represent our nation's best.
God bless and protect each and every service member; especially those who are in harms way.
There is insufficient room in this box to respond intelligently. Suffice it to say that being an American is a gift. How fortunate for those of us who were born in the USA. The freedoms of this society are multiple and varied. The opportunity to live freely with only minor restraints, to practice one's religious beliefs, to be employed in disciplines freely chosen, to become educated in a chosen profession, to freely travel, to appreciate our varied cultures, and certainly the appreciation of our founding fathers who with God's hand, crafted the Constitution by which the people may live freely and without the fear of government intervention. Such freedom is God given and not earned. Shame on anyone who is arrogant enought to think otherwise.
There many wonderful nations, and I have been fortunate to visit several. Surely I would find value and enjoy living abroad, but in the end, America is home.
Never to early. One of God's greatest gifts are our four legged friends. They are surrogate children and fill voids that even humans cannot fill. Dog spelled backwards spells - God! Dogs are one of His best creations.
Enjoy them while you can.
Yes! It is absurd and granted because America was expressing apologies to Afro-Americans.
The expression of showing respect for Black America and their contributions is valid, but certainly the length of time. Think about it. If extended periods were granted to every American culture...
Italian, Greek, Latino, Amerian Indian (each tribe), Eastern Indians, Japanese, Chinese, Polyonesians, Austrailians, New Zealenders, British, Scottish, Irish, Spanish, Sicilians, Iranians, Iraqi, Israli, Saudis, Turkish, Egyptians, Cubans, and and and and. Yes indeed - absurd to the core!
Besides, it is time to stop the apologies and get on board with being American.
The God of Abraham saved me while a runaway in Casper, WY. I didn't ask, but He threw a life preservor which I grabbed wih all of my might and heart.
God is very real folks. His Son, Jesus died and rose for you and me. Give Him a chance to show His love. You have NOTHING to lose and everything to gain.
PS: Victor Van's response is dynamic and wonderful. Ask a combat soldier for a taste of reality and the reality of God and His protection. Worth reading; scroll up....
Some are reluctant because they may fear being considered ignorant or even stupid. Everyone possesses an opinion, or at least a question and regardless how it is expressed merits attention.
Enter the fray; you may be very happy with your audience. :-)